Drivers across the country admit to taking to the roads when on ‘autopilot’.

More than one in ten drivers across the country admit to regularly going into a state of ‘autopilot’ while out on the roads, new figures from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) have revealed.

According to a survey of almost 1,500 people, 14 per cent of UK drivers say they quite often complete a journey by car but then struggle to recall what actually happened during their time on the road.

Moreover, 54 per cent of respondents said they have in the past missed a turning as a result of being distracted behind the wheel.

Both of these statistics highlight the shocking extent to which many motorists have become blase regarding their responsibilities for road safety, as not paying adequate attention to the task at hand can lead to a slowing of reactions and poor decision making.

Younger motorists were shown to be the worst offenders for entering this state of ‘autopilot’, with 35 per cent of respondents aged 18 to 25 stating they either often or quite often cannot recall any part of their journey. This compares to just five per cent of motorists aged 65 and above.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Being distracted enough that you miss a turning is a sign that driving is a task that has fallen too low in your brain’s priorities.

“While we all have other concerns and stresses in our lives which can take precedence in our minds, the act of driving should remain your biggest priority when behind the wheel.”

In order to tackle the issue of motorists failing to pay adequate attention to their driving, the IAM has offered some simple tips that can help to boost levels of concentration.

These include rolling down the window to allow fresh air to circulate within the vehicle, keeping eyes moving to scan the road ahead and for longer journeys, plan stops at least once every two hours to have a break from driving and recharge your batteries.

Would you like to save up to 10p per litre when you fill up on the motorway?

Contact Clare Lafferty of The Fuelcard People today to see how she can help you save up to 10p at motorway pumps.

The Fuelcard People has the widest range of products available from any commercial fuel card company, including the BP fuel card, which offers a complete package of service, savings & security.